Utah Symphony gets new director

Things will soon be a little different at the Utah Symphony.

With Thierry Fischer's appointment as the orchestra's new music director, which was announced during a press conference Thursday, both musicians and audiences can expect changes.

"This is a motivated orchestra with a strong education department and a dedicated staff," Fischer told the Deseret News in an interview after the press conference, "and when you add the strong support of the board and the exceptional acoustics of Abravanel Hall, then you can make great music. There is something to do here, and I am ready to accept this challenge."

Fischer replaced Keith Lockhart as music director Sept. 1. His contract is for four years with an option to renew for an additional three years.

Currently the principal conductor of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the chief conductor of Japan's Nagoya Philharmonic, Fischer said he is ready for the demands a new position will place on him and his family. "I am looking forward to coming here on a regular and extended basis."

Fischer is already planning the 2010-11 season, and the focus will be different than what audiences have come to expect. "I don't think people should be surprised that there will be a lot of French music," he said. "And there will also be a strong focus on the so-called classical period."

Known for his exciting and varied programming, Fischer gave an inkling of what to expect. "There will be extremes in repertoire, even in the popular repertoire. There will also be extremes in surprising repertoire as well."

But before anyone cringes at what the future might hold, Fischer added that it's important to make programming attractive to audiences. "There are so many ingredients that go into it (programming). Music is energy, and it has the power to transform us."

One of the things that appealed to the search committee was Fischer's vision for the Utah Symphony, and he has certainly not wasted any time in bringing his ideas out into the open.

Recordings are in the works. "We have some great artistic plans and ambitions," he said. "But first the orchestra and I will have to work and get articulation and sound proportions right. We have to first find a common language together."

Touring has also been discussed. But as with any recording projects, that will have to wait until Fischer is settled here and has developed a solid rapport with the orchestra.

Fischer will conduct one program in the current season. That takes place Jan. 29-30, 2010, and includes Shostakovich's Tenth Symphony.

Next season, Fischer will conduct five masterworks programs. It won't be until the 2011-12 season that Fischer will take on his full responsibilities as music director and conducting of more concerts. "I will be conducting at least 12 or 13 weeks here."

A strong and committed presence is the only way a music director can make an impact in the community and with his orchestra, Fischer said. "I am ready to develop new connections and being in Utah on a regular basis."

Well-known in Europe, Fischer said this is his first permanent position with an American orchestra. "I am very, very proud to be here."

e-mail: ereichel@desnews.com